When I lived in Montana for three years, I often dreamed of a year round garden full of flowers. It wasn’t until I returned to California that this dream actually came true. I take special pride now that I have flowers blooming even in the lean months of December and January. Then along comes February and my gardens have awakened.

Despite the frosts, drenching rains and excessive winds, there are a vast amount of hardy survivors that weather well in all conditions. I refer to them as my Frosty Friends.

Best of show is my large, beautiful daphne which perfumes my entire entry. It welcomes all my guests in grand style.

Most of you know about the cyclamens and pansies which can be found in most big box stores. The bergenia, however, is an old fashioned plant which has large rounded evergreen leaves. In February the bright pink cluster flowers appear and are quite showy.

I like to pair Tete-a-Tete daffodils with reticulata irises. They both are miniatures reaching about 5 to 6 inches tall and are used in rock gardens and containers. They are a stunning combination as the bright yellow of the daffodil complements the deep purple of the iris. Behind them I have planted the Spainish bluebells which are slightly taller and create a perfect trio.

I also have hellebores and camellias which have been blooming for well over a month. The hellebores (or Lenton Roses) are perfect for deep shade and provide color where it is sorely needed. They come in several colors with single or double blooms. No garden is complete without them.

As the temperatures eventually rise for spring my “Frosty Friends” will fade. Meanwhile, I will thoroughly enjoy them and next February will be anxiously awaiting their reappearance once more.

The Red Bluff Garden Club Inc. is a member of The Cascade Garden Club, California Garden Clubs, Inc; Pacific Region Garden Clubs, and National Garden Clubs, Inc.